Nokia Enlists Support of Segway Inventor to Promote Innovators Contest

In a bid to make cell phones more than just devices for communication, Nokia launched the "Calling All Innovators" global developer contest and partnered with Segway inventor Dean Kamen for promotion in the process.

In a bid to make cell phones more than just devices for communication, Nokia launched the Calling All Innovators global developer contest and partnered with Segway inventor Dean Kamen for promotion in the process. According to Nokia, the contest's aim is to "create mobile applications that will help to better society." Due to the ubiquitous nature of cell phones even in developing countries, the technologies that go into it have the potential to drive change in different sectors.

There are three different categories to choose from including "ECO-Challenge" which, as its name implies, is all about eco-centric technology. The category's aim is to find a way to lessen the cell phone industry's environmental impact. Additionally, the contest is searching for mobile solutions for consumers that could help them lead a more eco-conscious life focusing on reduction of carbon footprint and energy consumption. The other two categories are Emerging Markets for applications meant for developing nations and Technology Showcase that's looking for experience driven applications.

"Now that mobile devices are becoming as powerful as personal computers and more ubiquitous, challenging mobile developers and young inventors to develop the right applications can take the device simply known as a cellular phone and transform it into a catalyst to help society in many different ways," says Kamen. For example, in locations where diseases from dirty water are prevalent, a cell phone application that could test the water or provide a means to access or distribute clean water could save lives.

First prize for each category wins $25,000 and a trip to 2009's Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. The winning applications also get to be distributed for free. For contest rules, requirements, and submission, check out the official Nokia Calling All Innovators web site.